Natural Health Consultancy Complementary Therapy Clinic

 

Acupuncture originated in China over 2,000 years ago. The technique uses fine sterile needles inserted at specific points on the body in order to restore the balance of qi (energy; pronounced "chee") flowing along a number of meridians (channels) in the body. Each of the 12 main meridians has its own pulse and the acupuncturist checks these carefully and questions the patient regarding all aspects of health and lifestyle as well as specific symptoms, in order to decide which points to stimulate.

The technique has been shown to be remarkably successful at stopping pain, and in China major operations have been carried out using only acupuncture for pain relief. Scientists have discovered that the needles appear to make the body produce its own natural painkillers, endorphins. The World Health Organisation recognises acupuncture's ability to treat over many common disorders.

Traditional Chinese Medicine known as TCM concentrates on the systems of the body and the associated organs. Each organ of the body is seen to have a specific role. Through the imbalance of the body’s energy the organs role can become impaired resulting in illness. TCM acupuncture aims to address the imbalance of energy associated with the organs returning the body to a state of balance and health. Five element acupuncture views the body in relation to the way the Chinese view the seasons. Each element generates the next just as summer turns to autumn. Five element acupuncture takes into account the patients emotional state and the way this can influence the body’s energy. All five elements are present within us, however one element is always predominant this is known as the Causative or constitutional factor (CF). Through life’s stresses and strains the associated organs of the CF become imbalanced giving rise to emotional and physical symptoms. As each element generates the next imbalance throughout the cycle soon occurs. With the use of acupuncture, points can be stimulated to harmonise the energy of a patients CF resulting in a harmonisation of emotions and the energy within the five element cycle. This form of treatment can often bring about profound changes at an emotional and spiritual level.

This treatment is particularly helpful with arthritis, gastrointestinal problems, menstrual pain and disorders, pre-menstrual syndrome, infertility, respiratory disorders, insomnia, tiredness, dizziness, acute and chronic pain, depression and anxiety, addictions, ENT disorders, asthma, as well as many other ailments. Treatment would usually take place on a weekly basis until improvement is clearly shown at which time further treatments would occur at a less regular frequency.

Facial acupuncture is also available. Using very fine needles and electrical stimulation to boost blood flow and tone facial muscles. Relaxes the face and may reduce signs of ageing.

Cupping is a traditional therapy which has been practised for thousands of years, mainly in the East, but also in parts of Europe. It is often used alongside Acupuncture, to ease pain and stiffness. Glass cups are used to create a partial vacuum over the skin, bringing fresh blood and qi to the area, so moving the stagnation responsible for pain and stiffness. It is also used in the early stages of common cold, drawing out impurities.